CES: Valve shows off its Steam box

GAMING FIRM Valve along with the Xi3 corporation have been showing off a development stage model of the Steam box at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

The Steam box has been long anticipated and now that it is nearly upon us it does look interesting. Though it was expected to be a console it is actually more of a PC, or if you like, a hybrid device.

The two firms called the console PC box a "development stage system" that is optimised for "computer gameplay on large high-definition television monitors".

It apparently is grapefruit-sized and is basically the Xi3 modular chassis, but we'll stick with calling it the Steam box. It can be plugged into a television to use Steam's Big Picture feature.

"Today marks the beginning of a new era for Xi3," said the founder, president and CEO of Xi3, Jason Sullivan.

"This new development stage product will allow users to take full-advantage of their large high-definition TV displays for an amazing computer game experience. As a result, this new system could provide access to thousands of gaming titles through an integrated system that exceeds the capabilities of leading game consoles, but can fit in the palm of your hand."